Antique First Edition Audubon Octavo Lithograph – Hawk Owl in Bird's-Eye Maple Frame

An original first edition hand-colored lithograph of the Hawk Owl (Plate 399) from John James Audubon's Birds of America, published between 1840 and 1844. Drawn from nature by Audubon and printed from lithographic stone by J.T. Bowen of Philadelphia, Bowen's hand-colored lithographs are considered among the finest examples of American lithography of the 19th century.

Audubon's octavo edition was produced as a smaller-format companion to the original double-elephant folio edition of Birds of America. The original folio measured approximately 39½ × 26½ inches, while the octavo sheets measured about 6¾ × 10⅜ inches.

Owls and birds of prey are generally among the stronger-performing subjects in the octavo series, with values varying considerably by species, condition, and presentation.

Professionally framed by retired Denver gallery owner Tam O'Neill using archival acid-free materials, including matting, UV-protective acrylic glazing, and a richly figured bird's-eye maple frame. The original accompanying text page is mounted on the reverse.

Excellent antique condition.

Dimensions: 21 3/8" tall × 16 3/8" wide

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